THE INFLUENCE OF THE INFODEMIC ON OLDER ADULTS’ INFORMATION BEHAVIOR: A MULTICENTER ANALYSIS IN BRAZILObjective: To understand older adults’ health information behavior in during an infodemic.
Method: This is a multiple case study, using a qualitative approach, anchored in the conceptual model of information behavior and the Life-Span Theory. Data were collected through online interviews with older adults residing in one of eight intentionally chosen Brazilian cities and from publicly available documents about the COVID-19 pandemic in these municipalities. Data were examined using thematic-categorical content analysis.
Results: The findings were organized into three analytical categories. The first revealed that older adults sought reliable information using traditional media (radio, television, and print newspapers), support networks such as family members, and government sources. Given cognitive and emotional limitations and limited familiarity with digital technologies, they combined active and passive searches, demonstrating adaptive information strategies. The second category indicated that older adults analyzed information based on experiences, emotions, and cognitive strategies. Their attitudes ranged from critical and selective to confused, influenced by emotional overload, misinformation, and politicization. Responses were identified that varied from active validation to information avoidance. Finally, the third category showed that older adults used information for self-care decisions, such as isolation and mask use, often guided by reliable sources and already established routines. Emotions and the desire for security also guided its use, not always accompanied by critical analysis.
Conclusion: Older adults’ information behavior during an infodemic was marked by vulnerabilities, adaptations, and inequalities in access to and use of information.
DESCRIPTORS:
Infodemic; Pandemics; Aged; Disinformation; Social Networking